Categories: Seeking Gods Own Heart 2022

June 21

Psalm 39 Continued…

This Psalm shares a lot of resemblances to Psalm 38. There are a number of shared topics between these two Psalms.

God’s discipline is a theme in both Psalms (Psalm 38:1; 39:10-11a). The tenuous nature of life (Psalm 38:17; 39:3-4, 11). Silence is a theme in both Psalms (Psalm 38:13; 39:1-2, 9). Deafness is seen in both as well (Psalm 38:14; 39:12). The blows of God’s hand is a shared topic in both Psalms (Psalm 38:2, 11; 39:10). And the presence of the Lord is seen in both Psalms (Psalm 38:9; 39:5).

These shared ideas also will show up (in some form) in Psalms 40, 41 and 62. They are great themes that many believers struggle with from time to time and David perfectly and transparently brings these themes to life in the Psalms for us.

Psalm 39 is linked to the sentiments shared by David on the occasion of the building of the temple in 1 Chronicles 29. As David spoke to that assembly he uttered these words:

We are aliens and strangers in your sight, as were all our forefathers. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope. (1 Chronicles 29:15)

In our Psalm, David says:

Show me, O Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life. You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Each man’s life is but a breath. (Psalm 39:4-5)

And then…

For I dwell with you as an alien, a stranger, as all my fathers were. (Psalm 39:12)

David, recognized, as he prayed and spoke to the assembly about setting aside the resources for the construction of the temple, that life is short and we are just passing through and do not belong here. I believe when we recognize the same, viewing our life in the context of the Kingdom of God, that we know we are here but for a snap of the fingers and our true dwelling place is not here…we are citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20). It is very healthy to recognize the fleeting nature of our existence on earth. It can keep you from being distracted by things that have no lasting value.

PRAY

Father teach me to number my days.

Michael Demastus

What I Do: I am the Minister of the Word at The Fort. My primary duties are teaching the scriptures and casting a vision for God’s family at The Fort. Interesting Fact About Me: I have felt a call to preach since I was in ninth grade. The Fort is only my second church to serve as a preacher, and, God willing, will be my last. I Choose To Worship At The Fort Because: I believe in the vision of this church, and I trust the leadership of this church. Most of all, though, I love the people of The Fort–their passion, their generosity, and their commitment to the mission of God.